The Event: The Unseen Beatles Exhibition

'Paperback Writer' 1966 by Robert Whitaker

It was a bit of happenstance that brought British-born, Melbourne-based photographer Robert Whitaker in to contact with the Fab Four during their unforgettable 1964 Australian tour. Having snapped manager Brian Epstein for a piece later published by a journalist friend in the Jewish News, Robert went on to – not only meet – but become established as the in-house photographer for Epstein's NEMS Enterprises, at that point managing a host of big ‘60s music names: Gerry & The Pacemakers, Cilla Black and the Beatles among them.

But it was with the Beatles that he found his niche, travelling with the band for two years to shoot the mega group both on and off the stage, capturing them in moments of super stardom and off-time intimacy.

For the next month a series of Robert’s works will be in display at Mario’s Café, the local Melbourne spot once frequented by the photographer. Pictures begin with the 1964 Aussie gigs and end with his iconic shot of the meat-clad Beatles – the infamous ‘Butcher’s Sleeve’.

On show until June 29, these rare signed photographs will be on display and up for sale.

The Unseen Beatles, May 28 until June 29, on show at Mario’s Café, 303 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy.

John Lennon in Anchorage, 1966 by Robert Whitaker

The Beatles in Cliveden, 1965 by Robert Whitaker